Record-breaking Red Cross Blood Drive

Launched in 2006, the ARHS Community Service Club hosts an annual Red Cross Blood Drive that has gained tremendous popularity and broken records this year.

In April, a total of 74 students and 10 staff members signed up to donate a pint or more of blood.

According to English teacher Kristen Iverson, the club’s advisor who managed the drive, a new record was set for signups in 2016.

A total of 37 pints of blood were collected, the most since 2011.

“It’s a wonderful use of positive peer pressure,” said Ms. Iverson. “[Many] adults are regular donors.”

Among those who give blood are campus monitor Marc Keenan and physical education and health teacher Elizabeth Haygood.

Students donated for various reasons, including “earning ‘Mom points’ as well as being part of a good cause,” said senior Jon Naughton.

“It’s an easy way to help out,” said junior Ben Gilsdorf, who also suggested that holding the drive in the school was essential to its success. “[It was] good that I could just donate in the gym; it’s easier,” said Gilsdorf.

The Blood Drive was held in the back gym this year, which made it possible for all to donate during school hours.

Best of all, after people have donated once, they are more likely to become life-long donors. “If I have the option to help people out, I’m going to take it,” said Carlyn O’Leary.